Homeowners who like or cannot choose between styles might consider an eclectic-style kitchen remodel. Eclectic design is a visually interesting aesthetic that is on trend.
An eclectic-style kitchen is carefully curated, meaning no two are alike. Using color, patterns, and textures makes an eclectic kitchen look personalized and unique.
What is Eclectic Kitchen Style
Unlike other design styles, eclectic design does not strictly follow a set of rules or trends. Eclectic design is the mixing of separate styles to create one cohesive style. This style allows homeowners to express their creativity without conforming to design rules.
Interior designer Andi Pepper explains, “To me, the notion of being eclectic is to mix different styles and eras together to create a cohesive space, but you can’t simply put everything together. You have to have a sense of commonality about it, with thought put into the design.”
Only recently has eclectic style decorating become a more common option for kitchens. It began with the pioneers of fine art and architecture who did not want to commit to a certain style and would rather create their own.
This style became more popular than the pioneers wanted and became a design form. It is characterized by:
- A mix of styles and period
- Neutral background colors
- Unique art
- Use of different materials, patterns, and textures
- A mix of old and new
- Several different contrasts throughout the space
Eclectic kitchens are not necessarily busy and colorful, although they certainly can be, but they mix styles, such as vintage and new.
However, the space is not a hodgepodge of items, as they are well thought out and curated. Eclectic should not be confused with messy, as everything in an eclectic kitchen is placed there purposefully.
Keystone Elements of Eclectic Style Kitchen
One of the key elements of this design is contrast with different textures. Marble, leather, brick, wood, steel, fluffy fabrics, and woven rugs can all be part of this design.
Another key element is a statement object. This can be a vase, chandelier, range hood, or piece of furniture. One item should have a special place in the kitchen to steal the show. It can also be a collection of items that are displayed in the kitchen.
Homeowners who want to create an eclectic-style kitchen should consider the following:
Color Palette
The color palette for this kitchen style should be chosen before the remodel begins because it will guide the redesign. For example, a neutral palette with an accent color will set the stage for all of the design choices.
Dark colors will create intrigue, and lighter colors are more calming if there is a lot going on with other design elements. Therefore, the kitchen’s colors must be planned out beforehand so the final result is cohesive and not sloppy.
Walls should be kept simple because they serve as a backdrop for the rest of the space. Elaborate walls make bringing in other patterned textures difficult, whereas simply painted walls allow other elements to take center stage.
The homeowner can be creative elsewhere if the walls are kept neutral.
On the other hand, if the homeowner wants the walls to take center stage in the space, then the rest of the kitchen should be more subtle so the patterns and textures do not compete.
Patterns and Textures
Eclectic design always includes textures and patterns. Rugs, furniture, and cushions can all have patterns, such as geometric shapes, stripes, or polka dots. The use of opposing patterns is part of the light-hearted design. There is a contrast between the patterns and textures used to blend together.
The homeowner’s personal style can really come through with the use of different patterns and textures. They can be daring with expressive patterns or mix and match to create a unique space that blends. Smooth textures can be paired with rough ones, such as a marble countertop with a dark wood grain.
One important note: The patterns should align with the kitchen’s scale. While repetition of patterns is not necessary, it does help the space’s scale.
Eclectic Style Kitchen Cabinets
Homeowners have many choices regarding the cabinets in an eclectic kitchen. The final choice should define the homeowner’s style or work in contrast to other elements in the space. Homeowners who want to create interest elsewhere, say with the countertops, range hood, or appliances, may choose a simpler cabinet style as a backdrop.
Some homeowners want the cabinets to bring out the eclectic style and might mix together darker ones with white ones or two bold colors of cabinets. Opposite colors that are paired strategically will bring uniqueness to the kitchen.
The visible items should be colorful and interesting for glass-front cabinet doors to add texture. Exposed brickwork between the cabinets can also add texture.
Kitchen Island
An island can be utilized to add texture, pattern, or color to the space. The island’s color does not need to be the same color as the cabinets. In fact, choosing a contrasting color can be eye-catching. A bold color for the island, such as turquoise or bright yellow, will fit the eclectic style.
The chairs should match the style of the island, though, so that part of the kitchen does not seem messy. They can also have a pattern to add texture to the room.
Hardware
Hardware can be completely unexpected in an eclectic kitchen. Glass knobs, confetti glass pulls, or colored ceramic knobs with a vintage-inspired metal overlay are some of the many options available.
Hardware also does not need to match—every door can have a unique piece to show off the homeowner’s style. Contrasting colors can also be used for the hardware. The sky’s the limit regarding hardware choices in an eclectic kitchen!
Countertops
In an eclectic-style kitchen, countertops need not be traditional granite or quartz. A wooden countertop adds texture and warmth. Options include butcherblock, chevron, or wooden tile. A vintage grey island with a butcherblock countertop provides contrast and boldness, which is part of the eclectic design.
A patterned or boldly colored stone countertop works well in an eclectic kitchen. Many stone countertops are eye-catching and can serve as a statement piece. The color can contrast with the rest of the kitchen.
Backsplash
The backsplash can add uniqueness to the eclectic-style kitchen. A tiled backsplash with a pattern can make a bold statement and contrast against simple cabinets and countertops. The possibilities in color and style are endless but bright; bold colors work well for this style.
For example, an all-white kitchen with a colorful, patterned backsplash can be visually interesting.
Handmade tiles are another option for this type of kitchen. They help ensure that the kitchen is unique. Homeowners can use the colors of the backsplash in other areas of the space to create one cohesive design that maintains this aesthetic.
Appliances
Stainless steel provides a neutral background that blends into the space and allows the space’s style to emerge. But matching stainless steel is not the only option for appliances.
Consider one stand-out appliance, such as a brightly colored refrigerator. Or a porcelain enamel range is enough to be a standout piece in the kitchen. Accompanying appliances should then be very subtle.
Countertop appliances such as blenders, kettles, and toasters should never match. Only unique items should be on the countertops.
Flooring
Flooring should never be boring. There are several choices. It can be mixed or matched in an eclectic kitchen. One example is hexagon tiles and wood planks that make a big impact. The flooring pattern can match a different pattern in the room but with complementary shades.
Smaller designers like a black-and-white geometric pattern, which leans more toward a modern eclectic look, while a Mediterranean-influenced floor can add some interesting colors.
Eclectic Kitchen Sink
Several materials will be used to make a unique sink. A matching stone sink to the countertop is resistant to heat, chemicals, and staining. A material like soapstone will develop a patina with age.
Glass is another option that some homeowners might not be aware of. A colored glass sink can be the focal point of the kitchen. It is shatterproof and resistant to heat, stains, and scratches.
A hammered apron-front copper sink is a showstopper for the homeowner looking for a sink that really stands out.
Eclectic Kitchen Style Trends of 2024
This year is all about adding color to the kitchen. Adding colorful appliances, such as a vibrant refrigerator, is becoming a trend now, particularly in eclectic-style kitchens. A colorful backsplash is another way to add vibrancy.
Another trend for this year is using dark cabinetry in colors like olive green, charcoal gray, navy blue, and black. Dark lower cabinets are paired with lighter upper cabinets, creating visual interest in an eclectic kitchen.
An eclectic-style kitchen allows the homeowner to be creative with the space. Textures and patterns are used throughout the space for a personalized and carefully curated design. Homeowners will want to choose the best cabinets to complement the style.
